World renowned scientists to discuss climate solutions at McWane Science Center Feb. 8

I first met James McClintock, a UAB world renowned scientist and author in 2011.  Back then, he vividly described to me how Antarctica, the place where he had spent decades conducting life-saving research, was melting away.

Unfortunately, what he was witnessing, nearly a decade ago hasn’t changed.

It is getting worse.

Now, more than ever, McClintock wants to tell his story.

You can hear his story, and much more on Saturday, February 8th, at the Faith Meets Business: Climate Solutions for the Common Good  gathering  hosted by Citizens’ Climate Education Birmingham at the McWane Science Center.

The goal of the event is to encourage thoughtful community dialogue to explore and share solutions to the climate crisis.

A day-long event, McClintock will be joined by atmospheric scientist  Dr. Katharine Hayhoe and Seth Hammett, retired Speaker of the Alabama House of Representatives and Chair of the Energy Institute of Alabama.

Along with the presenters, there will be a number of roundtable discussions throughout the day to help foster an informed and continuing dialogue on climate solutions and a commitment to effective climate action.

Here is the schedule:

8:30: Sign-in, coffee, exhibits

9:00: Welcome and Introductions (please expect prompt opening) John Northrop, Joyce Lanning & Amy Templeton, CEO/President, McWane Science Center

9:15: The PROBLEM: Dr. James McClintock, UAB Polar and Marine Biologist and Antarctic researcher

9:45: Panel: CLIMATE SOLUTIONS

• HR763: John Northrop, Birmingham Leader, Citizens’ Climate Lobby/Education
• Project Drawdown: Jack West, Vice President and Counsel, EnPower Solutions
• Utilities: Seth Hammett, Chair, Energy Institute of Alabama
• UAB-Sustainability: Bambi Ingram, Interim Director
• Buildings: Jonathan Belcher, President, Signature Homes

11:00: Table dialogue and sharing

11:45 Lunch with Keynote: OUR CLIMATE IMPERATIVE: Dr. Katharine Hayhoe (introduced by Stella Tarrant, youth leader)

12:45: Panel: FOR THE COMMON GOOD

• Michael Malcom, Founder/Executive Director, Alabama Interfaith Power & Light and People’s Justice Council
• Ivan Holloway, Executive Director, Urban Impact, Revitalization of the Birmingham Civil Rights District
• Laszlo Juhasz, Operations Manager, Vehicle Innovation Center, New Flyer (electric bus manufacturer, Anniston facility)

1:30: Table dialogue and sharing

2:15: Next steps, closing, evaluations. Farewell by Concerto Delle Donne – Alabama School of Fine Arts

Registration deadline is fast approaching

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn firsthand about the climate crisis and ways you can be part of the solution.

Tickets, including box lunch, are $25 and $15 for students. For further information and advance registration (required) go to the event web page climatesolutionsforall.org.